Volunteer in Ecuador
Despite being the second-smallest country in Latin America, Ecuador boasts a multitude of contrasting landscapes. In one day, you can journey from black water lagoons of the Amazon basin, across glaciated Andean volcanoes, through dense tree canopies in the cloud forest to arrive at the Pacific coast. The ever-increasing urban populations of Ecuador have had a negative impact on these beautiful landscapes and their respective wildlife populations. Education and conservation projects are working to protect these resources as well as support the indigenous communities that are being pushed to the side by urbanisation.
Kaya’s volunteer projects in Ecuador range from rehabilitating animals at a Wildlife Centre in the Amazon to providing education to child laborers in an Outreach Programme in the capital of Quito. If you have experience in the healthcare sector, you can support indigenous communities on our Public Healthcare Placement in Riobamba.
In your free time in Ecuador, explore the vibrant capital city of Quito. Located high up in the Andes, it boasts an exquisite, colonial centre and stunning 16th century cathedral. Hop aboard the sky tram up to Pichincha volcano for spectacular views over the mountainous landscape. Don’t miss trying the local dishes of ceviche (raw fish marinated in citrus juices) or humitas (corn dumplings).
Weekend activities won’t disappoint in Ecuador! Adventurers can climb the country’s highest peak, Mount Chimborazo, or go paragliding or biking in the cloud forests of the Andes. Take a trip to Mindo, a small town enveloped in forested mountains, where you can hike to dramatic waterfalls. If you fancy extending your trip, visit the majestic Galapagos Islands, inhabited by creatures that you are unlikely to see anywhere else in the world!
For more suggestions on what to do during your intern or volunteer in Ecuador project, read our blog: ‘An Ultimate Bucket List for those visiting Ecuador’.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Easy 4-step application process
APPLY ONLINE
Click here to apply online and pay your application fee to apply for your space on your chosen project. Our advisors will then contact you to guide you through the next steps.
TELEPHONE INTERVIEW
Once we’ve received your application, we’ll review your details and be in touch to arrange your informal telephone interview with your Kaya Placement Advisor.
CONFIRMATION
Following your interview, we will provide you a placement offer. Once you are ready to confirm your placement and dates, you can pay your confirmation fee to book and secure your space.
GET PREPARED
When you have confirmed your project dates we'll send you your Welcome Pack and lots of other helpful information to assist you with preparing for your placement.